Building in the City of Hemet
Hemet is a vibrant city located in the San Jacinto Valley, nestled in Riverside County, offering a blend of suburban comfort, small-town charm, and access to nature. Known for its scenic views of the San Bernardino Mountains and its proximity to the San Jacinto River, Hemet is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with outdoor recreational opportunities.
The city features a range of housing options, from affordable single-family homes to newer developments, making it an attractive option for families, retirees, and those looking for more space than the nearby urban areas can offer. Hemet’s warm climate and abundant sunshine provide year-round outdoor activities, with residents enjoying hiking, fishing, and boating at nearby Diamond Valley Lake, as well as exploring the surrounding natural beauty of the area.
Hemet's charming downtown area offers a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors. The city also hosts several community events, including cultural festivals, farmers' markets, and outdoor concerts, fostering a strong sense of local pride and connection. With a focus on community development, Hemet is committed to improving its infrastructure and services to accommodate its growing population, while maintaining its relaxed, family-friendly environment.
With affordable living, ample outdoor recreation, and a welcoming community, Hemet is a great place to live, work, and enjoy Southern California’s natural beauty.
Construction Procedure in the City of Hemet
1. Initial Project Planning
The first step in any development project in Hemet is to define the project's vision, scope, and feasibility. Whether residential, commercial, or mixed-use, developers should review the property’s zoning designation and consult the City of Hemet General Plan, Zoning Code, and Municipal Code. Early planning should address site-specific factors such as site access, circulation, utilities, drainage, parking, and traffic patterns. Environmental considerations—including air quality, noise, and the proximity to sensitive areas—are also important. Aligning project goals with Hemet's growth plans, including infrastructure development and neighborhood compatibility, ensures a smoother approval process and reduces delays.
2. Pre-Application Consultation & Development Review
Before formally submitting an application, developers are encouraged to meet with Hemet’s Planning Division staff to discuss the project concept. This early consultation helps clarify zoning compliance, determine necessary entitlements such as Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), Site Plan Reviews, or Variances, and assess if an environmental review is required under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Early coordination helps identify potential issues and aligns the project with Hemet’s planning goals.
3. Submit Your Permit and Application Package
Once the project is refined, developers must submit a complete application package to the Planning Division. This typically includes application forms, site plans, floor plans, building elevations, and supporting documents such as traffic studies, drainage reports, and environmental assessments. For larger projects, additional materials such as grading plans, stormwater management plans, and utility connection plans may be necessary. A complete and well-organized application package helps streamline the review process and avoids delays.
4. Plan-Check, Design & Code Review
After submission, Hemet’s Planning, Building & Safety, and Public Works Divisions will review the project for compliance with local codes and regulations. The Planning Division ensures land use compatibility and zoning compliance, while the Building & Safety Division reviews compliance with the California Building Code. The Public Works Division evaluates the impact on infrastructure, including streets, water, sewer, and drainage systems. If the project involves environmental considerations, it will undergo a CEQA review. The review process typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the project.
5. Permit Issuance & Infrastructure Coordination
After the review process and payment of required fees, Hemet issues the necessary construction permits, such as building permits, grading permits, and public works permits. Developers must coordinate with the Public Works Department and utility providers to arrange for water, sewer, electricity, and gas connections. If the project involves public infrastructure improvements, such as street upgrades or sidewalk modifications, these plans must be approved by the Public Works Department before construction can begin.
6. Construction & Inspections
Once construction begins, licensed contractors must adhere to the approved plans and permit conditions. The Building & Safety Division conducts inspections at key stages of construction, including foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems. The Public Works Department also inspects any public infrastructure work, including street improvements or utility connections, to ensure compliance with safety and design standards. If any changes to the approved plans are needed, developers must submit revised plans for approval before proceeding.
7. Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy (or Final Approval)
Upon completion of construction, the developer requests a final inspection from the Building & Safety Division. The inspector verifies that all work is completed according to the approved plans, building codes, and permit conditions. Once the project passes the final inspection, the City of Hemet issues a Certificate of Occupancy for new buildings or Final Approval for tenant improvements and remodels. This confirms that the structure is safe for occupancy and meets all applicable regulations.
8. Project Close-Out
Project close-out includes completing any remaining conditions of approval, such as landscaping, signage, or infrastructure improvements. Developers must submit "as-built" drawings if required and finalize any public works improvements. If the project involves public infrastructure, such as streets or utility upgrades, the City must inspect and accept these improvements before they are officially finalized. Ensuring all documentation and compliance requirements are met helps prevent future delays and ensures that all obligations are fulfilled.
9. Ongoing Compliance & Future Modifications
Even after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued, property owners must continue to comply with Hemet’s Municipal Code, zoning regulations, and building standards. Future changes, such as building expansions, exterior renovations, signage updates, or land-use modifications, will require review and approval through the Planning or Building & Safety Divisions. Ongoing compliance ensures that properties remain consistent with the City’s goals for safety, livability, and long-term growth while maintaining Hemet’s character and sustainability.
Planning & Land Use – Planning Division
Phone: (951) 765-2370
Address: 445 E. Florida Avenue, Hemet, CA 92543
Email: planning@cityofhemet.org
Building & Safety – Building Division
Phone: (951) 765-2366
Address: 445 E. Florida Avenue, Hemet, CA 92543
Email: building@cityofhemet.org
Public Works / Roads & Infrastructure – Public Works Department
Phone: (951) 765-3713
Address: 1625 E. Florida Avenue, Hemet, CA 92544
Email: publicworks@cityofhemet.org
The Planning Division of the City of Hemet is responsible for overseeing land use, zoning, and development projects to ensure they align with the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, and applicable state and federal regulations. The division plays an essential role in guiding Hemet’s growth in a way that balances economic development with the preservation of the city’s unique character and quality of life. The division reviews applications for residential, commercial, mixed-use, and other types of development, focusing on compatibility with the City’s long-term vision, infrastructure needs, and environmental considerations. It evaluates factors such as site access, parking, landscaping, and building designs to ensure new projects complement the existing community fabric.
The Planning Division works closely with developers, property owners, and other city departments to facilitate the permitting process, helping to identify necessary entitlements—such as Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), Variances, and Site Plan Reviews—early on. The division also assesses the potential impacts of projects, including traffic, infrastructure demands, and environmental concerns, ensuring that developments contribute to Hemet’s sustainable growth and community well-being.
The Building & Safety Division is responsible for ensuring that all construction projects within Hemet comply with the California Building Code and other relevant regulations to maintain safety, structural integrity, and public health. The division reviews and approves building plans, issues permits for construction, and conducts inspections throughout the construction process. From foundation to final inspection, the division ensures that projects meet all applicable standards for safety, accessibility, and code compliance. The Building & Safety Division plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of Hemet’s built environment, ensuring that both new developments and remodels are safe and up to code.
The Public Works Department is responsible for managing and maintaining Hemet’s public infrastructure, including roads, stormwater systems, water and sewer utilities, and other essential services. The department reviews development proposals to ensure that they meet the city's infrastructure standards and coordinates with developers to ensure that utility connections and any required public infrastructure improvements are in place. The Public Works Department also oversees street maintenance, traffic management, and capital improvement projects that help sustain Hemet’s growth and functionality. By ensuring that new developments are well-integrated into the city’s infrastructure, the department helps maintain Hemet’s livability and supports its long-term development goals.
Hemet is a vibrant city located in the San Jacinto Valley of Riverside County, offering a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Known for its warm climate, picturesque mountain views, and rich history, Hemet attracts a diverse range of residents, from young families to retirees. The city features a variety of housing options, from traditional single-family homes to newer developments, all set within a welcoming community environment.
Hemet is home to numerous parks, recreational areas, and outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and golfing, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. The city also offers a growing commercial sector, with local shops, restaurants, and services that support its residents and contribute to its economic development. With a focus on sustainability, infrastructure improvement, and community engagement, Hemet strives to enhance the quality of life for its residents while maintaining its unique, family-friendly atmosphere. The city is committed to preserving its heritage while planning for a prosperous and vibrant future.
